The development minister told lawmakers yesterday she would reflect on her political sensitivity and relationship with advisory bodies after being criticised for ignoring heritage advisers in handling the redevelopment of Government Hill.

The west wing of the former government headquarters in Central could be saved from demolition after antiquities experts agreed the entire complex should be given the highest heritage rating short of monument status.

The wing, one of three components of the building, is set to be replaced with a commercial tower.

The Buildings Department chief has filed a court challenge against a decision by the buildings appeal tribunal in favour of a redevelopment in Sai Ying Pun.

The director of buildings has applied for a judicial review of the tribunal's decision in favour of an appeal lodged by a company owned by Henderson Land chairman Lee Shau-kee to develop a site in the area.

The government will ask the Legislative Council to approve extra funding of HK$500 million to subsidise more repair work at old buildings. The Development Bureau said this would be added to the HK$300 million left from a funding scheme launched in 2008 and allow the renovation of about 900 old buildings. Inspectors have identified 600 of these as problematic.